Relocating with your child without informing the other parent can create legal challenges, especially in Massachusetts. Both parents have rights and responsibilities, and it is crucial to understand the legal implications of such actions. Relocation may affect the...
Who is allowed to pick your child up from school?
Life can get a bit more complicated after a divorce, especially for parents. They often have to share custody of their children. This could include physical custody – where the child lives – and legal custody, which focuses on making decisions – like where the child...
Who is claiming your child on their tax return?
When parents divorce or separate, one of the key financial issues they need to address is who will claim their child or children on their tax return. Claiming a child as a dependent can result in significant tax benefits, including eligibility for the Child Tax...
Tips on handling custody violations by your co-parent
Dealing with a co-parent who consistently violates custody orders can be stressful and emotionally draining. Whether it’s missed pick-ups, last-minute cancellations or outright refusal to follow the agreed-upon schedule, these violations disrupt your time with your...
How long do alimony obligations last in Massachusetts?
If you were the breadwinner during your marriage, you’ll likely be required to pay spousal support after you divorce, especially if your spouse sacrificed their career to serve as a homemaker or is unable to work due to a disability. Your legal team – and the courts,...
Can your spouse just ignore your divorce filing?
You tell your spouse that you’re thinking about divorce, and they inform you that they are “never” getting divorced. They say they won’t go along with it, and that’s when you know that this isn’t going to be an amicable process. It is going to be contested. You move...
Reasons a judge may consider supervised visitation
Family court judges in Massachusetts strive to order the most fair and beneficial outcomes for children involved in custody disputes. As such, they may consider supervised visitation in cases where there are concerns about the safety, well-being or development of a...
How many couples get divorced within the first year?
Maybe you realized that the marriage was a mistake by the wedding reception – or maybe it took a few months. Either way, you have yet to make your first anniversary and you already want out. Is your situation unusual? Not at all. While there are no exact figures on...
Does a prenup mean you’re going to get divorced?
A prenuptial agreement allows couples to discuss certain outcomes before they get married. They can consider what would happen to their assets if they get divorced. This helps them to define ownership percentages or decide how to split up financial accounts. People...
Do both parents need to agree to a move if they share custody?
Co-parenting is a family scenario often fraught with challenges. The adults in the family may have had an adversarial relationship following a breakup or divorce. Every custody exchange could see tempers flare and disputes arise. Even when parents typically find ways...
